Riley Hospital for Children verified as a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center
The Committee on Trauma of the American College of Surgeons verifies Riley Children’s as Level I Pediatric Trauma Center, entering its 33rd year of verification.
Indianapolis, IN – Riley Hospital for Children is once again verified as Indiana’s longest standing Level I Pediatric Trauma Center in Indiana by the Verification Review Committee (VRC), a committee of the Committee on Trauma (COT) of the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This achievement recognizes the expertise Riley Children’s has in providing the highest level of care for children with traumatic injuries.
"I'm incredibly proud to lead a team of dedicated physicians, nurses, techs, and support staff delivering top-tier pediatric trauma care right here in Indiana. This Level 1 re-verification is more than a credential — it’s a powerful endorsement of the exceptional care we provide, and the deep commitment Riley brings to every patient,” said Trauma Medical Director Dr. Matthew Landman. “For 33 years, we've upheld the highest standards, and I'm excited for what’s ahead as we continue improving the lives of injured children and their families across the state."
Riley has treated more than 1,800 injured children annually. Among the most common trauma injuries Riley treats are gunshot wounds and vehicle accidents. Other trauma includes loss of limbs, head injuries, pelvic fractures, lawn mower injuries, button battery ingestions, trampoline accidents, and sports injuries among others.
"The team at Riley’s Trauma Center combines expertise, compassion, and cutting-edge technology to care for kids in their most critical moments. Earning re-verification from the American College of Surgeons for 33 straight years is a powerful validation of our ability to collaborate with hospitals and EMS providers across the state to treat the most seriously injured children," said David Biggerstaff, president of Riley Children’s Health
Riley Hospital for Children’s Trauma Center Facts:
- Team of pediatric general/trauma surgeons, anesthesiologists, radiologists, critical care physicians and emergency medicine physicians are pediatric fellowship trained and in the hospital 24/7
- Operating Room is always available within 15 minutes of trauma patient arriving with two OR teams available in the hospital 24/7, with a third OR team on call
- Four pediatric trauma bays equipped with technology and supplies for procedures, ultrasounds, intubation, and monitoring
- Two of the four trauma bays have been enhanced with negative pressure isolation and instant heat capabilities to combat hypothermia, which is important for burn and trauma patients
- Capability to land two aircraft on the main hospital roof and one on top of the Riley Outpatient Center. Elevators from main hospital helipad take patients directly into the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) or Emergency Department.
Established by the American College of Surgeons in 1987, the COT's Consultation/Verification Program for Hospitals promotes the development of trauma centers in which participants provide not only the hospital resources necessary for trauma care, but also the entire spectrum of care to address the needs of all injured patients. This spectrum encompasses the prehospital phase through the rehabilitation process.
